Tree Removal Cost Guide: Los Angeles, CA
In Los Angeles, expect to pay between $555–$2,670 for tree removal in 2026. That's based on a national band of $385–$1,850 adjusted for Los Angeles's cost of living (index ×1.40 vs national average).
Why Los Angeles prices differ
Strict protected-tree ordinances (oak, sycamore); permits before cutting.
Local factors in Los Angeles
- Permits & regulations: LA's protected tree list covers coast live oak, western sycamore, California bay and more — a city permit is required before removing or encroaching on them, with fines well into four figures for violations.
- Seasonality: Fire-cleanup demand peaks October–December; winter is the slow, cheaper season.
- Cost of living: Local labor and disposal costs run ×1.40 the national average, which is why the same job prices differently here than in cheaper metros.
What moves your quote
- Tree height: Under 30 ft: $150–$500 · 30–60 ft: $450–$1,200 · 60–80 ft: $800–$2,000+ · 80 ft+: $1,500–$3,000+
- Trunk diameter: Thick trunks need more cuts and haul loads; add roughly $2–$4 per inch of diameter over 12 inches.
- Access & equipment: Backyard trees with no gate access, trees near power lines, or jobs needing a crane add 25–100% to the base quote.
- Condition: Dead, leaning, or storm-damaged trees cost more — crews can't climb them the normal way.
- Cleanup options: Haul-away of logs and branches adds ~$50–$100; keep the wood on site and you skip it.
Los Angeles FAQ
Frequently asked questions
Which LA trees are protected and require a permit?
Coast live oaks, sycamores, bays and several native species. Check the city's Protected Tree Ordinance list before cutting anything native-looking — unpermitted removal carries fines and mandatory mitigation.
How close to my house can crews legally work in LA?
There's no set distance, but trees within reach of power lines require LADWP-coordinated crews, which raises the quote 20–50%.
Compare at least 3 quotes in Los Angeles
Homeowner reports consistently show the same job quoted 2–4x apart within one metro. Written, itemized quotes are the only defense — verbal numbers evaporate the moment the crew arrives.
Frequently asked questions
What is the average cost to remove a tree?
Nationally, expect roughly $385–$1,850 for a standard residential removal, with an average around $750–$1,200 for a mid-size tree. Quotes above $5,000 usually involve crane work, tight access, or very large trees — get them in writing.
Do I need a permit to remove a tree?
Many US cities require a permit for trees above a certain trunk size, on corner lots, or in historic districts. Check your city's forestry or code office before cutting — fines for unpermitted removal can exceed the job itself.
Is tree removal cheaper in winter?
Often yes. Late fall through winter is the slow season in most markets and companies discount 10–20%. Emergency and storm work is the exception — demand spikes and so do prices.
Should I get the stump removed at the same time?
Bundling stump grinding into the same visit typically saves $50–$100 versus a separate trip. See our stump removal pages for city-level pricing.